General Visitor Information

The Maryland State House soon after its completion, by Charles Willson Peale. Published in Columbian Magazine, 1789.

America's First Peacetime Capitol and the oldest state house still in legislative use.

Completed in 1779, it was the site of nationally important events during the American Revolution, including George Washington's resignation as commander in chief of the Continental Army from the army, and the ratfication of the Treaty of Paris. The rich architecture and history of the building was recognized in 1960 when the State House was designated as a National Historic Landmark.

The Maryland General Assembly convenes in the Maryland State House for three months each year. The governor, lieutenant governor, speaker of the House of Delegates and president of the Senate all have their offices in the historic building.

The State House is administered by the State House Trust which oversees the interpretation of the building as well as its care and maintenance. The Trust also has responsibility for the use of the public areas of the State House.

Visiting the State House

The State House is open to the public every day from 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., except Christmas and New Years Day. To help make your visit to the Maryland State House more enjoyable, and to provide you with an understanding of its rich and historic past, self-guided tour information is available in the Office of Interpretation on the first floor.

For information about the Maryland General Assembly's educational programs, which might include a State House tour, see: http://dls.state.md.us and click on "Visit Us" or call the Department of Legislative Services Visitors Program Coordinator at 410-946-5400/ 301-970-5400 or 1-800-492-7122 ext 5400. Hours of operation are Monday-Friday, 8am to 5pm.

The Office of Interpretation is a program of the Maryland State Archives. Specialized curatorial tours of the building and its artwork can be arranged by appointment by calling 410.260.6445. There is no charge for tours, but donations are encouraged to support the interpretation of the building.